Pacific College Celebrates Women's Health Week With Free Treatments

National Women's Health Week running May 8-14 2005 encourages women across the country to make positive health changes in their lives. During this week Pacific College of Oriental Medicine is providing women the opportunity to focus directly on their own health by offering a free acupuncture treatment to first time patients during this week, on a space available basis.

It is imperative that women take a proactive approach to maintaining their health, as studies have shown that women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with many serious health conditions. According to the Society for Women's Health Research, heart disease kills 500,000 American women each year - over 50,000 more women than men. Furthermore, three out of four people suffering from autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus, are women. Other ailments that are common to women include infertility, depression, asthma, menopause, and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).

Acupuncture, however, may help many of the common ailments that women face. The 3,000-year-old practice of acupuncture helps women deal with and overcome their health issues by rebalancing the body's immune system, hormones, and blood flow. According to Chinese medical practitioners, Qi, or energy, is conducted between the surface of the body and internal organs along pathways called meridians. It is Qi that regulates spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance. When the flow of Qi is disrupted through poor health habits or other circumstances, disease can result. Acupuncture helps keep the flow of this energy unblocked.

Acupuncture has been cited by the World Health Organization to treat over 43 conditions, and has shown to be effective in treating women's issues. As Acupuncture continues to grow in popularity, more women are experiencing the benefits of treatment. According to a Knowledge Networks survey conducted in May 2000, women are significantly more likely to try acupuncture, as well as other complementary therapies, than men. The North American Menopause Society also reports that 30 percent of women use acupuncture.

For more information on the benefits of acupuncture in women's healthcare, or for an appointment please call Pacific College 's Clinic (619) 574-6932.

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